Box or Bottle?

Could that be the next big question after paper or plastic? Is box wine really the future? First, why did I venture over to that wall of boxed wine in the first place. As our budget seems to tighten more and more, I figured the value of boxed wine would be appealing. I also wanted a wine that could be opened and still be drinkable for more than a few days after opening. The box met both these criteria. Now understand, I am not talking Franzia boxed wine here, i am strictly evaluating newer, higher quality wines in boxes. Even the most expensive box wines retail at about $25 for 3 Liters, or four bottles. That works out to $6.25 a bottle or a buck and change per glass. Second, that air sealed bags with taps are terrific for keeping a wine fresh for longer periods of time. First I am looking into Chardonnays.

Leading off was the Washington Hills 2004 Washington State Chardonnay. I fell for one of the old tricks and bought it because of the point of sale tag declaring its good score from a wine publication. Retail was about $16. Disappointing would be the best way to describe this wine. The first taste of it almost had me dumping the whole 3 liters and calling it quits on the box experiment. It was overly fruity, not crisp enough, and way too sweet. Yuck! But I stayed strong and soldiered on. The next day I resorted to an old trick I picked up in salvaging bad white wines. Chill it, and kill it. Four ice cubes later, the Washington Hills, was crisper, less fruity, and a quick way to get tipsy. The rest of the box was drinkable with plenty of ice. My recommendation: don't buy it.

Second up was Hardy's 2006 Chardonnay from South Eastern Australia. A $17 retail worked out to similar prices as the Washington Hills, $4.25 a bottle, less than 75 cents a glass. The taste much better. No need for ice here either. Pale straw in color, with aromas of green apple, honey, and some alcohol. The palate was fresh with a a honey cream flavor, more green apple, and some butterscotch on the finish. This wine was a big improvement over the previous box, and assured that this trial would continue. My recommendation: give it a shot at your next get together or to keep in your fridge for the conclusion of those tough days at work.

Next post should roll in by the end of this week with two more Chardonnays that are being examined as we speak, I mean type. Till next time..."Read my Patriots blog at www.theday.com!"